Manila: Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia stated that the presence of international observers does not constitute interference as the Philippines conducts its midterm national and local elections on Monday. Garcia emphasized that these observers are there to witness the electoral process and potentially offer recommendations, but the final decisions remain with the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Garcia confirmed the arrival of 52 additional international observers from countries including Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Indonesia, Russia, Taiwan, Armenia, and Tajikistan to monitor the May 12 polls. He explained that these observers are sponsored by Comelec as part of efforts to demonstrate the transparency and openness of the elections. “This means that we have nothing to hide when we talk about elections,” Garcia remarked.

Garcia highlighted that the Philippines is reciprocally invited to observe elections in other countries, mentioning a recent invitation from Romania to observe its presidential polls. The exchange of observers allows nations to learn from each other’s electoral practices, potentially adopting beneficial methods to enhance democratic processes.

He clarified that while foreign observers are welcomed, they are not permitted to enter polling precincts on election day. Recently, Comelec received observers from the US Republican Party, and Garcia met with 60 observers from the US Embassy set to be deployed across the country.

On May 7, the European Union (EU) deployed approximately 104 short-term observers to oversee the May 12 elections. These observers will be stationed across various regions, both urban and rural, to monitor polling, automated counting, and result canvassing processes. Additionally, the EU dispatched 72 long-term observers to operate in pairs throughout the country, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.